Sommelier
Sommeliers are trained wine professionals who specialize in all aspects of wine service, from selecting and purchasing wines to advising guests on food pairings. They manage restaurant wine programs, maintain cellars, and stay current on wine regions and vintages worldwide. The median salary is around $62,000, with top sommeliers at prestigious restaurants earning significantly more. Certification through the Court of Master Sommeliers is highly valued.
A Day in the Life
A typical day begins with receiving wine deliveries and inspecting bottles for proper storage. Mid-morning involves tasting new wines from a distributor and deciding which to add to the wine list. During dinner service, the sommelier tableside-visits guests, recommending wines to complement their meals. After service, they update inventory records and research upcoming wine regions for a special tasting event.
Key Stats
Education
Associate Degree
Salary Range
Entry: $38,000
Median: $62,000
Senior: $100,000
Job Growth